Bengaluru
The way has been cleared to meet 83 indigenous fighter aircraft to the Indian Air Force. For Tejas, the engine 404 from the American company GE has agreed to supply 404 and the first engine will get a total of 12 engines in March this year and by the end of this year.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which manufactures Tejas, has said that if the engine 404 as well as the engine 414 supply for Tejas Mark One is smooth, it will supply all 180 Tejas aircraft by 2031-32.
HAL Chief Managing Director DK Sunil said at a press conference here on Tuesday in response to questions that the top -level conversation with GE has been held and the engine 404 supplies has been agreed. He said that the first engine will be found in March this year and the remaining 11 will be available by the end of this year.
In response to a question, he said that HAL had talked to GE in Boston last week regarding Tejas Mark One’s engine 414. HAL has asked GE to clarify its position on 80 percent of the technology transfers for the first engine and after that it will be discussed at its price. He said that we have made GE aware of all our points and now their reply is awaited.
When asked about the grounded fighter helicopter (ALH) not flying after the accident, he said that the investigation revealed that his breath plate was broken. Now the investigation of the cause of the accident will take three weeks and after which the whole situation will be cleared and a decision can be taken to start its flight. He said that it is so certain that there is no flaw in the design of the helicopter. He said that aspects related to training of pilots will also be given attention.
When asked about the advanced medium fighter aircraft Emka, he said that its work is happening fast and its appearance will be ready to fly in three years.
Mr. Sunil said that HAL is making a big investment on technology and research and its goal is now to increase exports. He said that talks are going on with many countries at various levels for this. For this, HAL is also working towards opening its offices abroad.
